Route History for US 3 in Massachusetts

In 1926, the route US 3 now follows was numbered NE 6. NE 6 followed what is now MA 3A between the New Hampshire state line and Burlington. The road surface was paved in Massachusetts at this time.

By 1928, the route had been renumbered US 3.

Between 1951 and 1961, US 3 was realigned to its current path between Tyngsboro and Burlington, and widened to a four lane limited access highway. In addition, I 93 was completed between Reading and Medford, replacing US 3 as a major through route in this area.

Between 1963 and 1969, was realigned to its current path between the New Hampshire state line and Burlington. In addition, I 93 was completed between Reading and Somerville, replacing US 3 as a major through route in this area.

Between 1970 and 1973, I 93 was completed between Somerville and Boston, replacing US 3 as a major through route in this area.